DEERFIELD TWP. — A Pine Street resident and former police officer is outraged, claiming that despite constant drug use, drug transactions in plain sight and other perpetual criminal activity on his street, police have provided little to no patrolling in the area.

Joel Sanders, a former special law enforcement officer in Lower Township, said he's afraid to let his young children out to play on their own street, located in Rosenhayn.

Sanders claims he has reported the activity numerous times to state police, but said nothing has been done and that his street remains without a police presence whatsoever.

Sanders spoke out last month at a township committee meeting and told the committee that he was fed up and didn't know what else to do.

"The state police doesn't seem to want to take an active approach," Sanders said. "... My kids play in the streets and there are narcotics transactions going on in plain sight."

Sanders said he has also picked up .40 caliber shell casings on his street.

He also said people are constantly smoking pot at Frank LoBiondo Sr. Park, where he and his wife used to enjoy bringing their children.

However, the committee looked puzzled and said they were unaware of everything he described.

"I don't think anyone on this committee had any idea what is going on," said Mayor John Stanzione at last month's meeting. "In the future, when you see something, contact us, and we will contact the state police."

Sanders asked why calling the state police directly wouldn't result in some kind of action.

Stanzione did reach out to the State Police Bridgeton Barracks — which is the station responsible for enforcing the area. However, Lt. James Meyers, station commander at the Bridgeton Barracks, said after speaking to Sanders, he was unaware of any of his complaints.

"I take everyone's concerns very seriously," Meyers said. "And though this is the first time I have heard about the specific issues raised by (Mr. Sanders), I am in touch with him and we are actively trying to address any and all potential issues the area may be experiencing.